Meta-owned Instagram is in the process of developing a new feature dubbed "Friend Map," which bears similarities to Snap Map, the media has reported. This feature is rumoured to introduce a world map interface, allowing users to view the recent whereabouts of their friends. According to leaked information users will have the ability to see others positioned across the map, relying on shared location data. Additionally, users can actively participate by placing themselves on the map through posts containing location information.
Mobile developer Alessandro Paluzzi shared information about this feature on X (formerly Twitter), unveiling several screenshots of Friend Map. Paluzzi mentioned: "Instagram continues to develop "Friend map": your friends, on a map." If accurate, this feature could introduce a fresh interface to the social media platform, potentially serving as a novel method for users to explore nearby individuals and accounts.
"#Instagram keeps working on "Friend map": your friends, on a map đ âšī¸ Your location is end-to-end encrypted Let's see how it works đ," Paluzzi posted on X.
Paluzzi also revisited a previous post from October 2023 showcasing a new Stories icon labeled "Nearby." The informant suggested that this may also be linked to the Friend Map functionality. Although specifics are scarce, it's possible that posts from nearby users for the Friend Map could be directly accessible through this icon.
From the images, it seems that Friend Map will unveil a global map displaying a user's friends, provided they share their location data. The screenshots suggest that users can also annotate the map. This functionality might resemble the Notes feature within the Direct Message section. If the leak holds true, users could have up to three avenues for sharing updates: Stories, Notes, and Map Notes. A message in the screenshot urged users to "Find a new excuse to share what's happening wherever you are."